Koz

Other than a Christmas album and a greatest-hits collection, we haven't heard anything new from contemporary jazz saxophonist Dave Koz since his successful 2007 date At the Movies (though recording somewhat infrequently has been a Koz trademark). Hello Tomorrow, his first date for Concord, is not only full of new tunes in a diverse array, but hosts an impressive cast of band and guest players, as well. Produced by John Burk and Marcus Miller, the set kicks off with the euphoric jazz-funk groover "Put the Top Down," featuring Lee Ritenour on lead guitar, Ray Parker, Jr. on rhythm, Brian Culbertson handling the synths and programming, Omar Hakim on drums, Sheila E. on percussion, and a three-piece horn section adding to Koz's alto.

Saxophonist Dave Koz has become one of the most successful and beloved instrumentalists of his time, and helped establish smooth jazz as a musical force to be reckoned with. His career catapulted with 1993's Lucky Man, one of Koz' slickest and most commercial releases (which is not a bad thing by any means) to date. The album has an undeniably crisp and clean feel, akin to the color schemes used in the artwork. The musical styles range from funky and peppy, as in the opening "Shakin' the Shack," "Silverlining," and the evergreen "You Make Me Smile," to tender and sweet, as in "Faces of the Heart," "Lucky Man," and "Tender Is the Night," which features hypnotic vocals courtesy of Phil Perry.

Dave Koz reunites with the original cast of the longest-running jazz-based Christmas Tour on this album, marking the 25th Anniversary milestone of the tour in 2022. Produced by the legendary Philippe Saisse, the album features all newly recorded Christmas favorites and one original song from Koz, who has previously released 7 holiday-themed albums, and heartfelt performances by contemporary jazz icons, trumpeter Rick Braun, guitarist Peter White, and the original co-creator of the tour, pianist David Benoit.